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Israeli Defense Minister announces 60-Day ceasefire with Hamas

Gallant orders the military to create plans for constructing a new city in the severely damaged town of Rafah
Published 08 Jul, 2025 09:26am
File photo
File photo

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has declared a 60-day ceasefire with Hamas, allowing for the evacuation of more than 75% of the occupied areas in Gaza.

Gallant indicated that continuing conflict in the remaining 25% is unnecessary and poses risks to hostages. He emphasized that, starting tomorrow, Gaza will largely be free of Hamas as most occupied areas are cleared.

The minister also noted that the bodies of 10 living and half of the hostages will be returned. He asserted that Hamas has agreed to allow the Philadelphi Corridor to remain under Israeli military control.

Additionally, Gallant has instructed the military to plan for the construction of a new city in the devastated town of Rafah, where the entire Gaza Strip population will be relocated.

No response has yet been received from Hamas regarding this contentious proposal.

The third round of negotiations between Israel and Hamas is anticipated to conclude without significant results.

Indirect talks in Qatar aimed at reaching an agreement have not yielded major advancements in the first two rounds.

Despite this, both parties remain hopeful for a resolution, with discussions likely to continue over the coming days.

Israel

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Gaza

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palestinians

Hamas

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Yoav Gallant

Israeli Defense Minister